Asphalt Volume Calculator
Calculate the volume of asphalt needed for your project and convert between cubic yards, cubic feet, and tons. Get instant results and helpful insights for your construction planning.
Volume Conversion Guide
Understanding Asphalt Volume
Asphalt volume is typically measured in cubic yards or cubic feet in the US, and cubic meters internationally. Converting between these units is essential for accurate material ordering and cost estimation.
Common Conversion Factors:
- •1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet
- •1 cubic meter = 35.3147 cubic feet
- •1 cubic meter = 1.30795 cubic yards
- •1 ton of asphalt ≈ 0.5 cubic yards (varies by mix)
Volume to Weight Conversion
Converting from volume to weight depends on the density of the asphalt mix. Standard hot mix asphalt typically weighs around 145 pounds per cubic foot (2,322 kg per cubic meter).
Quick Reference:
- •1 cubic yard of asphalt ≈ 2 tons
- •1 cubic meter of asphalt ≈ 2.4 tonnes
- •1 ton of asphalt ≈ 0.5 cubic yards
- •1 tonne of asphalt ≈ 0.42 cubic meters
Asphalt Coverage Chart
| Thickness | Area per Cubic Yard | Area per Ton | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 inch (2.5 cm) | 324 sq ft (30 sq m) | 162 sq ft (15 sq m) | Thin overlay |
| 2 inches (5 cm) | 162 sq ft (15 sq m) | 81 sq ft (7.5 sq m) | Residential driveway |
| 3 inches (7.5 cm) | 108 sq ft (10 sq m) | 54 sq ft (5 sq m) | Standard driveway |
| 4 inches (10 cm) | 81 sq ft (7.5 sq m) | 40.5 sq ft (3.8 sq m) | Commercial use |
Frequently Asked Questions
To convert cubic yards to tons for asphalt, multiply the volume in cubic yards by 2. This is because asphalt typically weighs about 2 tons per cubic yard. For more precise calculations, you can use the formula: Tons = Cubic Yards × 2.025 (based on 145 lbs/cubic foot density).
Volume measurements (cubic yards, cubic feet, cubic meters) describe the physical space the asphalt occupies, while weight measurements (tons, tonnes) describe how heavy the material is. Asphalt is typically sold by weight (tons), but project dimensions are calculated in volume. The conversion between them depends on the density of the specific asphalt mix being used.
This calculator provides a good estimate for planning purposes, but actual asphalt needs may vary based on site conditions, compaction rates, and waste factors. We use standard density values (145 lbs/cubic foot or 2,322 kg/cubic meter) for our calculations. For the most accurate results, we recommend adding 5-10% extra for waste and consulting with your asphalt supplier about the specific density of their mix.
Contractors and suppliers sell asphalt by weight (tons) rather than volume (cubic yards) because weight is more consistent and easier to measure accurately. The volume of asphalt can change with temperature and compaction, while weight remains constant. Asphalt plants have scales that precisely measure the weight loaded onto trucks, making it the industry standard for pricing and billing.
A cubic yard of asphalt typically weighs about 2 tons (4,000 pounds). This can vary slightly depending on the specific mix design, aggregate size, and oil content. Dense-graded mixes may weigh slightly more, while open-graded mixes might weigh less. For most residential and commercial applications, using 2 tons per cubic yard provides a reliable estimate.
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